What is Mater Ecclesiae in Vatican City?

Mater Ecclesiae, meaning Mother of the Church in Latin, is a mosaic image of the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus. It is located on the façade of the Apostolic Palace, overlooking St. Peter’s Square. The mosaic was installed by Pope John Paul II in 1981 as a symbol of Mary’s maternal protection over the Church.

What does the title Mary, Mother of the Church mean?

The title Mary, Mother of the Church emphasizes Mary’s spiritual motherhood over all Christians. This doctrine highlights her role at the key moments of the Church’s birth—at the foot of the Cross and at Pentecost—and expresses the belief that she continues to intercede for and protect the faithful.

Where can I see the original Madonna of the Column?

The original Madonna della Colonna is located inside St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Dating back to the 15th century, it was painted directly onto a marble column from the original Constantinian basilica and is preserved in a special side altar.

Why did Pope John Paul II install the Mater Ecclesiae mosaic?

After surviving the assassination attempt on May 13, 1981—the feast of Our Lady of Fatima—Pope John Paul II attributed his survival to Mary’s intercession. He decided to place an image of Mary above St. Peter’s Square so she could “watch over” the faithful gathered from around the world.

Where can I buy a reproduction mosaic of Mater Ecclesiae?

High-quality reproductions of the Mater Ecclesiae mosaic are available from Savelli Religious, a trusted Vatican shop specializing in religious art and souvenirs.

Where can I find a medal of Mary, Mother of the Church?

You can purchase a beautifully crafted Mary Mother of the Church medal at Savelli Religious, located just outside St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, or through their online store.

Is Mater Ecclesiae only a Catholic devotion?

While the devotion is strongest within the Catholic Church, the title Mother of the Church reflects Mary’s role in Christian theology as a whole. Many other Christian traditions also honor her as the spiritual mother of believers.

Can I photograph the Mater Ecclesiae mosaic?

Yes, the mosaic is in a public space and can be freely photographed from St. Peter’s Square. Many pilgrims and visitors take pictures as a memento of their visit to the Vatican.

Who designed the Mater Ecclesiae mosaic?

The mosaic was created by the Vatican Mosaic Studio and is based on a design by Spanish artist Javier Cotelo, inspired by the 15th-century Madonna of the Column.

What does “Totus Tuus” mean under the Mater Ecclesiae mosaic?

Totus Tuus is Latin for “Totally Yours,” Pope John Paul II’s personal motto, expressing his complete consecration to the Virgin Mary.

an I buy a rosary dedicated to Mary, Mother of the Church?

Yes, beautifully crafted rosaries honoring Mary Mother of the Church are available from Savelli Religious in Vatican City and on their official online store.

Is there a special feast day for Mary, Mother of the Church?

Yes, Pope Francis established the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church to be celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost.

SKU: N4BR2

MATER ECCLESIAE - MEDAL

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Literally "Mother of the Church". The medal reproduces the famous mosaic of the Virgin which is located on the facade of the Apostolic Palace, in the direction of St. Peter's Basilica. The mosaic was commissioned by Pope John Paul II, whom always carried with him a medal of the Mater Ecclesiae, after the attack of 13 May 1981 to witness the sign of a heavenly protection.

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